Robert L. Ringuette

Robert Leo Ringuette (March 3, 1940 – April 15, 2024) – Bob Ringuette of East Bridgewater passed away on Patriot's Day after a brief illness, surrounded by loved ones. He was 84.
The loving husband of (and always "Robert" to) Sally Ann Smith Ringuette, Bob was the son of the late Emilia Ouellette (Ringuette) Dwyer and stepson to Irvin Dwyer.
Born and raised in Fall River, Bob joined the U.S. Navy in 1959 and became part of the flight crew on a VP-7 (Patrol Squadron SEVEN), where he formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. After receiving a Navy Good Conduct Medal and an Honorable discharge, Bob graduated from Fitchburg College and later the Harvard University Graduate School of Education. He spent more than 35 years working as a Guidance Counselor at Canton High School (1966-2001).
Mr. Ringuette (Ringo to his team and some bolder students) approached his tenure at Canton High School with his signature mix of wit, candor and a refusal to take the easy road. Not one for encouraging pipe dreams nor sugarcoating the truth, Bob preferred to challenge his students, athletes and offspring to push their limits. This might explain his 14 years coaching the Lady Bulldogs, the girls' varsity soccer team not known for its natural talents. It also helps one understand the earring he sported for years after losing a bet against the team.
When he retired, the Canton High School yearbook honored Ringo, noting that while the Lady Bulldogs might have lacked natural talent, they consistently demonstrated leadership, character, sportsmanship, and unrelenting will power. "It's been said before that a team's record does not necessarily reflect their success; it's not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game." Bob's legacy at Canton High was marked not just by a pierced ear, but by the countless students who found their way – and the way they found it - thanks to his relentless honesty and coaching.
In his retirement, Bob most enjoyed traveling and spending time with Sally. He could often be found playing golf, reading books, completing the New York Times crossword puzzle, or goofing around with his grandchildren.
Throughout it all, Bob loved the game of soccer. A player and team captain in college, he brought his passion to his community, his school and his family, serving as coach, referee, scheduler, the Secretary/Treasurer and later President of the Eastern Massachusetts Soccer Officials Association (EMSOA) for many years. He could also be very vocal on the sidelines, attending hundreds of games where his four children played (some more impressively than others.) Later in life, he became a board member of the Council on Aging in East Bridgewater.
He is survived by his wife Sally and his four children; Scott J. Ringuette and his wife Yvette of East Bridgewater, Michelle A. Ringuette and her husband David Price of Washington DC, Erik M. Ringuette and his wife Robin of Bridgewater, and Robert D.A. Ringuette and his wife Amy of Attleboro. Proud "Grampa" of Scott M. Ringuette and his wife Sarah, John S. Ringuette, Justin M. Ringuette, Allie L.A. Ringuette, Eamon D. Price, Owen W. R. Ringuette, and Madelyn E. Ringuette. Loving cousin of Mary Jane Golden of Dartmouth and Anne Ouellette of Mansfield. He was predeceased by his first wife, Bernardine Brennan Ringuette.
Bob devoted his life to taking care of his family, his students, and anyone on his team. He will be dearly missed.
All are cordially invited to a wake on Sunday April 21, at the Chapman Funerals and Cremations, 35 Spring St. EAST BRIDGEWATER from 1-4. A Funeral Program will begin at 3pm. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the American Kidney Fund, please click here.